Aug. 14, 2005
ORLANDO - After a lively practice Saturday night in full pads, the UCF football team practiced in helmets and shorts during Sunday's practice session. The Golden Knights used the day to focus on the kicking game and installation before Monday's two practices.
"We banged it around pretty good last night," stated UCF head coach George O'Leary. "Today was a day to focus on the kicking game and continue with installation."
On the injury front, freshman fullback Shane Smith returned to practice after missing two days with a high ankle sprain.
On defense, the secondary continues to hold a mix of players with different talents and potential. One of the youngest position segments on the team, the only upperclassmen with playing experience are senior Anthony Willis and juniors Travonti Johnson and Ron Ellis. Johnson. Johnson, who missed the spring while rehabilitating a knee injury, is starting to round back into form and spent time with the first team defense in Sunday's practice session.
"Travonti is having a good camp," stated defensive backs coach Miles Aldridge. "I like all of my guys. They all have potential to help us and I am just coaching them as hard as I can right now."
Several freshmen could see playing time early in the season as freshman cornerback Joe Burnett worked with the second team defense while freshmen linebackers Travis Barr and Cory Hogue continue to get action with the second team unit. Another newcomer - sophomore defensive back Dominik Kelly - has displayed great speed and could be a factor in the secondary this season.
UCF returns to the field for two practices Monday. The Golden Knights are scheduled to practice from 9-11:10 a.m. and 7:30-9:15 p.m.